# Bioderma Sensibio Defensive for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/bioderma/sensibio-defensive/for/combination-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Australia.

Brand: [Bioderma](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/brands/bioderma)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/best/moisturizers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for combination skin; other moisturizers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate moisturizing for your combination skin due to glycerin and laminaria ochroleuca extract, which hydrate and enhance barrier resilience, but lacks specialized ingredients for oil control on your oily shine areas.
- The presence of xylitol and rhamnose provides humectant action, supporting overall skin hydration.
- The product is safe for your combination skin, with no risks of irritation from harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing agents like glycyrrhetinic acid and laminaria ochroleuca extract.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/bioderma/sensibio-defensive/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/bioderma/sensibio-defensive/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/bioderma/sensibio-defensive/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/bioderma/sensibio-defensive/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/bioderma/sensibio-defensive/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/bioderma/sensibio-defensive/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/bioderma/sensibio-defensive/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/bioderma/sensibio-defensive/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/bioderma/sensibio-defensive/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Glycerin, Glycyrrhetinic Acid, Laminaria Ochroleuca Extract, Tocopherol, Fructooligosaccharides

## What the research says

- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- A formulation containing glycerol (5%) and xylitol (5%) applied twice daily for 14 days increased skin hydration, filaggrin protein quantity, interdigitation index, and biomechanical properties, and decreased transepidermal water loss compared to untreated and vehicle-treated skin in twelve volunteers with dry skin. ([Acta Dermato-venereologica, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27349297/))
- A dermo-cosmetic formula containing 2% enoxolone significantly reduced erythema at 24 hours and pain at 30 minutes following non-ablative fractional laser treatment in 10 healthy subjects compared to a moisturizer control. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38622995/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))
- Topical application of a cream containing 2.5% glycyrrhetinic acid significantly reduced thigh fat thickness and circumference compared to placebo in healthy women. ([Steroids, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15894038/))
- Topical application of B-Resorcinol and Glycyrrhetinic acid effectively lightens hand solar lentigines after 4 weeks of treatment both with and without prior fractional laser photothermolysis, showing no statistical difference between the two approaches. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27325103/))
- Glycyrrhetinic acid inhibited skin 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and potentiated the vasoconstrictor action of hydrocortisone. ([Lancet, 1990](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1970371/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant serum containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented particulate matter-induced degradation of extracellular matrix components, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skin of 15 female volunteers compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40642809/))
- Dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate showed non-comedogenic potential with less than a 50% increase in microcomedones in 12 healthy male subjects compared to octyl palmitate. ([Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant mix containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented PM and UV-induced skin barrier perturbation, lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers, MMP9 activation, and Type I collagen loss in 15 healthy females compared to untreated exposed skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590207/))

## How to apply

- Use this moisturizer in your AM and PM routine every day to control shine. Always pair with SPF in the morning.
- Apply this moisturizer after your cleanser and toner, right before your morning SPF.
- Gently press a small amount of the moisturizer into your skin and avoid harsh rubbing. Let it ⏳absorb for a minute.
- Apply the moisturizer on slightly damp skin to help it lock in moisture better. This keeps your combination skin balanced.
- Avoid the eye area when applying the moisturizer. Do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Bioderma Sensibio Defensive work for combination skin?

Bioderma Sensibio Defensive works reasonably well for combination skin by providing moderate hydration and soothing dry areas, but it lacks specific ingredients to help control oily shine. Combination skin of this type needs a moisturizer with ingredients that hydrate while also targeting oil control to balance both dry and shiny zones.
Sources: [Acta Dermato-venereologica, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27349297/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this cream a good fit for combination skin?

Glycerin, xylitol, and laminaria ochroleuca extract make this cream a good fit by providing moderate hydration and supporting your skin barrier. To work best for combination skin, a product of this type needs effective ingredients that target oily shine while keeping skin balanced and moisturized.
Sources: [Acta Dermato-venereologica, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27349297/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Glycerin do for combination skin?

Glycerin helps keep combination skin soft and smooth by pulling moisture in and keeping it there. It improves hydration and supports your skin barrier, which is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Glycyrrhetinic Acid do for combination skin?

Glycyrrhetinic Acid helps calm red, irritated areas and balances skin by soothing inflammation. This ingredient is unlikely to cause irritation and supports an even, calm complexion.
Sources: [Dermatologic Therapy, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32833275/), [Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22832704/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for combination skin?

In a routine for combination skin, apply this moisturizing treatment in the evening, following a makeup remover, cleanser, and cleansing toner, and before your moisturizer. Combination skin requires lightweight hydrators and oil-controlling ingredients to manage both dry and shiny areas effectively.

### Can I use this cream with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this cream with retinol by applying the retinol first, letting it dry, and then smoothing on this moisturizer to help keep your skin calm and hydrated. Combination skin also needs a product of this type to include ingredients for oil control on your oily shine areas.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22648223/)

### How often should I use it?

Apply this moisturizing treatment twice daily, morning and evening, for best hydration and barrier support. Regular daily use helps keep combination skin comfortable and smooth.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32141711/), [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/)

### Can this cream clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for combination skin?

This cream is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for your combination skin, as it has a safe profile with no harsh ingredients that typically cause irritation. However, because it only offers moderate hydration without oil control ingredients, combination skin needs balancing additions like mattifying agents and lightweight, non-greasy hydrators to properly manage oily shine areas.

### Can I use it around the eyes or on my body?

This moisturizer is safe to use around the eyes and on the body, though the thin skin around the eyes and different body areas have varying thicknesses. It helps hydrate and soothe the skin without causing irritation.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [Acta Dermato-venereologica, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27349297/)

### Is this cream fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (parfum). Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$24.00 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-ha/for/combination-skin) — High fit — A$19.90 at Amazon
- [Anua Heartleaf 78% Soothing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/anua/heartleaf-78-soothing-cream/for/combination-skin) — High fit — A$42.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$73.61 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$42.00 at Amazon
- Pre-Cleanser: [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-oil/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$30.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Australia has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Cetearyl Isononanoate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Peg-100 Stearate, Mannitol, Xylitol, Rhamnose, Fructooligosaccharides, Laminaria Ochroleuca Extract, Tocopherol, Glycyrrhetinic Acid, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Sodium Hydroxide, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Disodium Edta, Parfum
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/bioderma/sensibio-defensive/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/bioderma/sensibio-defensive/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/bioderma/sensibio-defensive/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/bioderma/sensibio-defensive/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/bioderma/sensibio-defensive/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/bioderma/sensibio-defensive/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/bioderma/sensibio-defensive/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/bioderma/sensibio-defensive/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/bioderma/sensibio-defensive/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/bioderma/sensibio-defensive/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/bioderma/sensibio-defensive/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/bioderma/sensibio-defensive/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/bioderma/sensibio-defensive/for/combination-skin